A Toddler’s Life Saved Through Organ Donation

Medically reviewed by Sonia Solomon, DO

There are more than 101,000 people in the United States on the waiting list for a kidney transplant. Despite this great need, only 17,000 people on the waiting list receive a kidney each year, resulting in 12 people dying each day waiting for a kidney.

For one Westchester County family, these statistics became a reality when they least expected. At 9 months old, Hadley Frusciante was admitted to Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital with a congenital disorder that prevented her kidneys from developing properly.

“Hadley has spent over a year in the hospital—almost her entire life so far,” said Sonia Solomon, DO, a pediatric nephrologist at Maria Fareri Children's Hospital. “There was concern that her kidneys were cancerous, so we removed them and she was on dialysis.”

It was then that Hadley went on the waiting list for a kidney transplant, a rare occurrence for a one-year-old. “Pediatric patients get priority on the transplant list, but the wait time is still very long. And it can be difficult to find the right size kidney for a toddler,” said Dr. Solomon.

Hadley’s aunt was ready to donate her kidney, but she wasn’t the right blood type. Instead, she donated to the National Kidney Registry—a donor exchange program that can help those seeking kidneys to find a living donor. In August, Hadley’s care team found a donor match through the National Kidney Registry. And on September 3, 2024, at 21 months old, she was discharged from the hospital after a successful kidney transplant.

Dr. Solomon shared that having pediatric kidney disease is typically a lifelong journey, but a transplant helps to improve the quality of life almost immediately. “Being on dialysis is not easy for anyone, especially for a toddler,” said Dr. Solomon. “Hadley was receiving dialysis four times a week—it impacted the quality of life for her and her family. Getting a transplant now ensures that she can grow up with a healthy kidney.”

For Hadley, a living kidney donation is what saved her life. “Living donation drastically shortens the wait time for a transplant,” said Dr. Solomon. “And time is of the essence for patients on dialysis, who have higher mortality rates.”

At Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital, we pride ourselves on being an advanced care center dedicated to pioneering innovative treatments and providing exceptional care. Our commitment to medical excellence and cutting-edge technology ensures that we can offer the best possible outcomes for our patients.

If your family needs pediatric kidney (nephrology) or kidney transplant services, please reach out to Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital. Our team of dedicated specialists is here to provide comprehensive care and support for children with kidney conditions. By choosing our advanced care center, you are ensuring access to innovative treatments and compassionate care. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help your child lead a healthier, happier life.

Toddler Hadley Frusciante with aunt Kayla Mercado. Mercado donated a kidney on Hadley's behalf into the National Kidney Registry.